Rising Costs Force Local Restaurant Menu Change

That burger you love might not come the way you expect right now.

A longtime Evansville restaurant says it is temporarily pulling tomatoes from its menu due to rising costs. The change highlights the growing pressure inflation is putting on local businesses.

A Small Change That Says A Lot

Highland Inn, a family-owned restaurant serving the community since 1921, announced the move in a recent social media post.

According to the restaurant, the price for tomatoes has surged to about $100 for a 25-pound case, making it difficult to continue offering them without raising menu prices.

The restaurant said it could not absorb the cost increase and made the decision to temporarily stop serving tomatoes.

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Why Restaurants Cannot Just Shop Cheaper

In a follow-up comment, the restaurant explained that health department regulations require restaurants to purchase produce from certified sources.

That means they cannot simply buy cheaper alternatives from local or uncertified suppliers, even when prices spike.

While it may seem like a small change, it's one that customers will notice.

Tomatoes are a staple topping for burgers, sandwiches, and salads, and their absence could signal a broader shift if food costs continue to rise.

Read More: Indiana Now Has Highest Foreclosure Rates In Nation

A Bigger Trend To Watch

The decision comes as inflation continues to impact both consumers and small businesses, with costs remaining a major concern.

For many local restaurants, the challenge is balancing rising expenses without passing those costs directly onto customers.

For now, it may mean adjusting expectations the next time you order, and possibly seeing more menu changes like this if price pressures continue.